A big part of Blackjack is action, finding opportunities to add to your original bet using tactical moves. Splitting is a very action-orientated play, only possible when you’ve dealt a Pair.
When this happens, you can make an extra wager, usually double your original stake, and Split your Pair into two separate hands.
The Basic Rules of Splitting
Depending on where you play, and what variation you’re enjoying, certain rules will be applied. Some sites, for example, won’t let you split 10s or Face cards. But some rules are generally applied across all venues.
The first is, with just one exception, you can keep Splitting if you keep being dealt the same card. This rule doesn’t apply to a Pair of Aces, however. You can usually only take one more card on top of each Ace after you Split.
In all other cases, once you’ve divided your cards, you’ll play each hand on its own. After you’ve received the first compulsory card on each of those you Split, then you must decide to Hit or Stay as usual.
Finally, at most places, if you draw a hand that you could Double Down after Splitting or one that’s below 11 points, you can pursue that Double Down after you’ve made your move.
When to Split
Just because you can Split doesn’t mean you always should. There is only 1 instance where you should always divide your Pair, and that’s two 8s. This hand gives you the worst point total in Blackjack, 16, and should be avoided at all costs.
In all other circumstances, you’ll need to take what the dealer’s showing into account, how aggressively you want to play, how much money you want to risk, and even how Lady Luck’s been treating you!
Statistically, always Split when the dealer’s showing a 4, 5, or 6. And, believe it or not, splitting 10s or two of the same Face cards is not advisable. You already have the second-best hand, so why tempt fate?
When Not to Split
If the dealer’s holding a 9, 10, or Ace, avoid Splitting unless it’s a Pair of 8s. Basic Blackjack Strategy dictates that you assume all unseen cards are worth 10 points when the dealer has a strong up-card you’ll need to act as if you’re drawing against a made hand.
When it comes to number cards, don’t split if you’re dealt a Pair of 5s. You’ll want to Double Down on this hand since 10 points are more likely to turn into a strong total than two hands building off 5.
When to Carefully Consider a Split
If a Blackjack dealer’s showing a 2 or a 3, the decision to Split or not to Split is trickier. Tips here are more general, like splitting smaller Pairs rather than bigger ones.
When it comes to these kinds of situations, it’s time to trust your intuition. As mystical as it may sound, half the fun of playing Blackjack is that your gut instinct will keep getting better and you will be able to trust it more effectively as time goes on.
